Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (such as canola oil)
• 1 cup grated carrots (about 1 large carrot)
• 1 (8oz) package cream cheese
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including baking time)
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until well combined. Add vegetable oil and mix well.
4. Stir in grated carrots and mix thoroughly.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the carrot mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Fill the cupcake liners with the cake mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
8. To make the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually and mix well.
9. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest (if using).
10. Spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming all ingredients are available in standard quantities) Calories: Approx. 400 per cupcake (based on the recipe ingredients provided) Fat: Approx. 20g, Carbohydrates: Approx. 50g, Protein: Approx. 4g

Dish Characteristics:

• These cupcakes are a creative blend of carrot cake and cupcakes, offering a unique flavor experience.
• The lemon cream cheese frosting provides a rich and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes.
• The combination of carrot and spices gives these cupcakes a warm and comforting flavor that is popular in American cuisine.

User Comments:

1. "These cupcakes were a hit at my party! The combination of flavors was spot on." - John Doe
2. "The frosting was especially delicious! The lemon flavor was a great addition." - Jane Smith
3. "These cupcakes were so moist and flavorful, I couldn't stop eating them!" - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use fresh ingredients for best results.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your preference for a stronger or milder lemon flavor.
• For best results, let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to ensure the frosting sets properly.